Question 21 （Doubts and Questions about Pure Land）

by Elder Zen Master T'ien Ju

Question 21

The words of this deluded monk are greatly mistaken. Alas, they cannot be taken back even if you chase them with a chariot drawn by four mustangs! Listening to what you, Master, have taught, who among us would not experience a shiver? Regretfully, our Minds, while capable of great vigor, are easily prone to retrogression as well. Hearing words of advice and admonition, we bravely redouble our efforts, but when we encounter obstacles, we grow lazy and lax, retrogress and head in a different direction.
     
Most people would say that the results of Buddha Recitation practice may emerge after death, but at present we can experience only weariness and fatigue, with no practical benefit. Is this not a likely reason why cultivators grow lazy and retrogress?

Answer

Your understanding is still not comprehensive. The sutras say that those who invoke the Buddha’s name with utmost sincerity will derive ten great benefits in this very life:（96）

1. Day and night they enjoy the invisible protection of all celestial beings, powerful deities and their multitudes of retainers;

2. Twenty-five great Bodhisattvas, including the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (Kuan Yin) and other Bodhisattvas,
   constantly keep them in mind and protect them;

3. They enjoy the continuous aid and protection of the Buddhas; Amitabha Buddha emits constant light to gather them in;

4. No evil demons, ferocious dragons, poisonous snakes or the like can harm them;

5. They do not meet with such calamities as drowning, burning or other violent death; nor do they encounter    such punishment as being shackled and imprisoned;

6. Previous evil karma is gradually dissipated; the souls of those whom they have murdered in past lives are  liberated and no longer seek revenge;

7. They have restful sleep or dream of auspicious events or view the supremely wonderful body of Amitabha Buddha;

8. Their Minds are always joyful and at peace, their complexions clear and bright, their bodies filled with  energy and strength; whatever they undertake generally meets with success;

9. They are always honored and assisted by others, and are gladly accorded the respect reserved for the Buddhas;

10. At the time of death, they do not experience fright, as right thoughts manifest themselves; they witness    Amitabha Buddha and the Sacred Assembly bearing the golden lotus dais, to welcome and escort them to the Pure Land, where they will enjoy peace of Mind and happiness forever.

These ten benefits are described by the Buddha himself, as recorded in the sutras. Since Buddha Recitation can bring such benefits in the present life and in the future, it is the most important of all mundane and supra-mundane Dharma methods. Cultivators should, therefore, redouble their efforts and not develop doubts.
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96. This list of ten great benefits is rather popular. There are several alternative translations into English. 

related post:  Question 22 （Doubts and Questions about Pure Land）
                       
Source Of Information:
《Pure Land Buddhism (Dialogues with Ancient Masters)》, by Elder Zen Master T'ien Ju, translated with annotations by Master Thich Thien Tam, printed and donated for free distribution by: The Corporate Body of the Buddha Educational Foundation (11F, 55, Hang Chow South Road Sec 1, Taipei, Taiwan), printed in February 2023.
*** The information provided above does not contain personal opinion of this blog.